Rep. Brent votes for the operating budget, but says more needs to be done for the people of Ohio

Today, State Rep. Juanita O. Brent (D-Cleveland) voted for the State of Ohio operating budget (HB 110).

“Today I voted for the operating budget because it includes the Fair School Funding Plan, which deals with the inequities of school funding in our state,” said Representative Brent. “We owe it to all of our students to ensure that no matter where they live, they have access to quality education. This budget provides a significant increase in funding from the State of Ohio for House District 12’s public school districts. This is long overdue, but I’m proud to have voted to put Ohio students first and support public education.

“This budget also has provisions for much needed COVID-19 relief for our small businesses and expands the residential broadband grant program. This funding is more important than ever as we continue to navigate through the pandemic.

“With that being said, this budget isn’t perfect. Millionaires and billionaires don’t need another tax break. I’m also disappointed in the decrease in funding to the local government fund, the reduction in the Earned Income Tax Credit, and cutting funding for our public libraries.

“I hope my colleagues in the Senate can expand on the progress we made with this budget and turn it into something that provides even more opportunity for Ohioans across our state.”

The Operating Budget was voted out of the House by a vote of 70-27. It now heads to the Ohio Senate for their consideration.